Can You Save Iron Bull From Betraying You in Dragon Age: Inquisition?
The question of whether Iron Bull can be saved from betraying the Inquisitor is a complex and often frustrating one for Dragon Age: Inquisition players. The short answer is: Yes, you can prevent Iron Bull from betraying you, but only under very specific circumstances. It hinges entirely on your choices during his personal quest, “Demands of the Qun”. Specifically, you must choose to save the Bull’s Chargers over the Dreadnought. If you save the Dreadnought, Iron Bull will always betray you later, regardless of your relationship or approval rating.
The narrative surrounding Iron Bull’s loyalty is designed to be a morally grey area, forcing players to make a difficult choice with significant consequences. This makes understanding the nuances of his quest incredibly important for players invested in his character and the wider story.
Understanding “Demands of the Qun”
The quest “Demands of the Qun” is triggered after speaking to Iron Bull in Skyhold. The exact conditions are not fully known, but it seems to require a combination of in-game time, quest progression, and a positive disposition from Iron Bull. Once available, head to the Storm Coast with Iron Bull in your party.
During the quest, you’ll face a crucial decision:
- Save the Bull’s Chargers: By choosing this option, you prioritize the lives of Iron Bull’s mercenary company. They will live to fight alongside him and the Inquisition.
- Save the Dreadnought: Selecting this option involves rescuing a large Qunari warship but will cost the lives of the Chargers.
This choice has long-lasting repercussions for the rest of the game and determines whether Iron Bull remains loyal to the Inquisition or follows his orders from the Ben-Hassrath.
The Consequences of Your Choice
Saving the Chargers
If you choose to save the Chargers, Iron Bull will remain loyal to the Inquisition and will not betray you. His character arc will focus on his loyalty to his friends and his growing independence from the Qun. He will see the value in his relationships with the Inquisitor and the Chargers. This is the only way to avoid his betrayal. Saving the Chargers allows Iron Bull to grow as an individual, embracing his own identity outside of the strict doctrines of the Qun. He will openly commit his loyalty to the Inquisition.
Saving the Dreadnought
Choosing to save the Dreadnought will have profound consequences. Even if you have a high approval rating with him, are in a romance with him, or even if Dorian is in a romance with him, he will always betray you in the Trespasser DLC under orders from the Ben-Hassrath. He will turn on the Inquisitor and you will be forced to kill him. This is a pre-programmed outcome, showcasing that the Qun holds more sway over him than any personal bonds. This outcome will result in a heartbreaking loss, particularly for players who have invested heavily in his character. He will, by this choice, remain a loyal Qunari, devoted to their traditions despite the personal costs.
The Myth of Approval and Romance
It is crucial to understand that approval rating and even romancing Iron Bull are irrelevant when it comes to his loyalty in “Demands of the Qun”. Even a deep, romantic relationship with him will not stop his betrayal if you save the Dreadnought. The decision regarding the Chargers or the Dreadnought is the sole determinant of his ultimate fate. The dialogue changes but the ultimate result stays the same.
The Impact on the Trespasser DLC
The impact of this decision is most apparent in the Trespasser DLC. If you saved the Dreadnought, you will be forced into a confrontation with Iron Bull. This encounter is extremely emotional and underscores the heartbreaking nature of his choice to side with the Qun. The encounter showcases his inner turmoil, and highlights the severe power the Qun has over him. If you save the Chargers, Iron Bull will be a steadfast companion throughout Trespasser.
Additional Insights about Iron Bull
Iron Bull’s Background
Iron Bull is a Qunari warrior, originally named Hissrad, which translates to “liar” or “weaver of illusions.” He is the leader of a mercenary company called the Bull’s Chargers and a Ben-Hassrath agent stationed in Orlais. He spent a decade serving in Seheron. His complex background and divided loyalties are central to his character development.
Recruitment
Iron Bull can be recruited at the Storm Coast. Upon arriving, you will see him in a battle, after defeating the hostiles, you have the option to recruit him into the Inquisition. The option to recruit him remains available, even after the Breach has been closed. You just need to accept his quest with Krem in Haven and head to the Storm Coast to recruit him.
Relationships and Interactions
Iron Bull can be romanced by a male or female Inquisitor. In addition to a possible Inquisitor romance, he is also a popular pairing with Dorian. Their banter together can be triggered by traveling together on quests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you romance Iron Bull and still save him?
Yes, you can be in a romantic relationship with Iron Bull, but it does not prevent his betrayal if you choose to save the Dreadnought. Saving the Chargers is the only way to keep him loyal.
2. What happens if I don’t recruit Iron Bull?
If you don’t recruit Iron Bull, he will not betray you. You will have a brief encounter, but he won’t feature prominently in your story, meaning that the betrayal is not part of your game.
3. Can you get Iron Bull after closing the Breach?
Yes, you can recruit Iron Bull after closing the Breach. Simply accept his recruitment quest from Krem in Haven.
4. Is it better to save the Dreadnought or the Chargers for Iron Bull’s development?
Saving the Chargers is better for Iron Bull’s personal development and ensures his loyalty. Saving the Dreadnought solidifies his devotion to the Qun. While he technically sees some growth with the Dreadnought, it leads to his forced betrayal and ultimate demise.
5. Can you sleep with Iron Bull and romance someone else?
You can flirt with multiple characters, but you cannot be in a committed romantic relationship with more than one at a time. If you choose to pursue another romantic interest, you must end the previous relationship.
6. What triggers “Demands of the Qun”?
The “Demands of the Qun” quest is triggered after speaking to Iron Bull in Skyhold, likely due to a combination of time, quest completion, and positive disposition towards him.
7. Where do I meet Iron Bull at the Storm Coast?
You will encounter Iron Bull fighting on a beach. Defeat the hostiles, and then you can talk with him and recruit him into the Inquisition.
8. Does Iron Bull lose approval for saving the Chargers?
No, Iron Bull gains approval for saving the Chargers, just as he would for saving the Dreadnought. His approval is not affected by the choice but his final outcome is.
9. Why is Iron Bull’s name Hissrad?
Hissrad, his Qunari name, means “liar” or “weaver of illusions”, which reflects his secret identity as a Ben-Hassrath agent.
10. What are the physical characteristics of Iron Bull?
Iron Bull has lost an eye and is missing several finger joints on his left hand, as well as a brace on his left ankle due to previous injuries.
11. How do you trigger the Iron Bull and Dorian romance?
You trigger their romantic banter by taking both of them out on quests together until their dialogue changes.
12. What level should I be for the Trespasser DLC?
It is recommended to be around level 20 before starting the Trespasser DLC.
13. What happens if I complete the Demands of the Qun quest before reaching Skyhold?
It’s unlikely to trigger before Skyhold. The quest begins with Iron Bull initiating the conversation.
14. Can Iron Bull survive in Trespasser?
Yes, Iron Bull can survive the Trespasser DLC, only if you chose to save the Chargers during the “Demands of the Qun” quest. If you choose the Dreadnought then he will be killed.
15. Does it matter if Iron Bull is present during the Demands of the Qun mission?
Yes, Iron Bull must be in your party during the “Demands of the Qun” quest for it to activate and progress properly.